In Jan Ellison's "A Small Indiscretion," the author reflects on the disconnection that children may experience from their roots as they grow up. This separation can occur regardless of parental intentions, leading to a generational divide where children are oblivious to the troubles affecting their family's past. The narrative suggests that children are shaped by their environments, often influenced by factors beyond their immediate understanding.

The quote emphasizes the inevitable distance that arises between children and their familial histories. It highlights a poignant reality: even as parents strive to protect or control their children's experiences, the larger world can intrude, reshaping identities and connections. This theme underscores the complexities of family dynamics and the lasting impact of external circumstances on personal histories.